Brede Hangeland has been linked with a move to Old Trafford as a solution to Sir Alex Ferguson’s concerning list of defensive injuries.
The towering centre back has been at Craven Cottage since 2008, however with his contract set to expire at the end of this season, Fulham boss Martin Jol may be tempted to cash-in for the big Norwegian should an offer be made by Manchester United during the January transfer window.
Defenders Chris Smalling, Phil jones and Nemanja Vidic have all been sidelined for United with long-term injures, however Smalling returned to training last week. So far this season, Rio Ferdinand and Johnny Evans have been Fergie’s only available centre backs, with midfielder Michael Carrick stepping in as cover.
Aged 31, Hangeland is older than United’s usual acquisitions, however the player would add depth and experience to the squad’s defence which has struggled to hit top form this season.
The Fulham captain may also be a short-term replacement for Nemanja Vidic, who could be lured away from the Premier League by Barcelona or Juventus this January according to the Mirror.